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What Will Happen in Venezuela After Maduro's Arrest by the US

Published January 3, 2026, 14:16

The news of the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, following US strikes in Caracas, marks a historic turning point in relations between the United States and Latin America. The United States has not made such a direct intervention in the region since 1989. Maduro's removal will be seen as a major victory for the most hawkish elements of the US government. The US accuses Maduro of drug trafficking and does not recognize him as the legitimate president, while Caracas accuses the US of trying to seize the country's oil reserves. The future of Venezuela is uncertain, with the opposition hoping to take power, but with the military remaining loyal to Maduro and the risk of destabilization.